2005 Audi A8 vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Audi A8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Audi A8 would be higher. At 5,998 cc, 2005 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2005 Audi A8. (444 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A8 weights approximately 395 kg more than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Because 2005 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 421 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Audi A8. (580 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Audi A8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A8 | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A8 | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 5982 cc |
| Engine Type | W | V |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 605 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 580 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.4 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1995 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 15.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 80 L |
